Did you know the University of Guelph is a public research university founded in Ontario, Canada, in 1964? The university has a student and academic staff population of over 23,000. It provides undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including agriculture, arts, engineering, science, and veterinary medicine.
The University of Guelph is renowned for its excellence in teaching, research, and student satisfaction. According to Maclean’s magazine and The Globe and Mail, it is one of Canada’s most highly regarded universities, known for its comprehensive programs. Times Higher Education has also recognized it for its global impact. No wonder this university is a top choice for many students seeking a top-quality education!
Overview of the University of Guelph
The University of Guelph is a public research university in Ontario, Canada. It was formed in 1964 and has more than 23,000 pupils and teaching staff. It has various undergraduate and graduate studies in agriculture, arts, engineering, science, and veterinary medicine.
The University of Guelph is known for its excellent teaching, analysis, and student happiness. Maclean’s magazine and The Globe and Mail rank it as one of the best universities in Canada. Times Higher Education also recognizes its global effect. The University of Guelph has a beautiful, safe campus that mixes historical and modern buildings with cutting-edge technology.
It has one of Canada’s biggest and best housing systems, with a range of places for students to live and 16 different places to eat. The University of Guelph is dedicated to a better life through active research and innovation. It has a reputation for innovation and quality and goes back more than 150 years to its original colleges: Ontario Veterinary College, Ontario Agricultural College, and Macdonald Institute.
The University of Guelph is known as Canada’s Food University. It focuses on food science, nutrition, gardening, and environmental studies. It is home to the Food Institute, a center for joint research and teaching on food issues.

Benefits of attending the University of Guelph as an International student
As an international student, attending the University of Guelph can offer you a bounty of benefits. Let’s take a look at some of them:
- As a student, you can access various resources and support services to help you excel academically and personally. These include international student advising, English language support, assistance with immigration documents and permits, mental health resources, etc.
- You will experience the convenience and easy access to the heart of campus from any residence, with 16 different dining venues.
- You will learn beyond the classroom and across disciplines and anchor real-life ideas.
- You will be part of a university committed to improving lives through active inquiry and creativity, focusing strongly on food science, nutrition, agriculture, and environmental studies.
The admission process at the University of Guelph
Are you an international student looking to study at the University of Guelph? Follow these simple steps to make your dream a reality: Are you an international student looking to study at the University of Guelph? Follow these simple steps to make your dream a reality:
Explore the programs of study and check the admission requirements.
The university has different admission requirements for other programs and countries. You can find the specific requirements for your country and curriculum on the university’s website. You can also use the undergraduate award search tool to determine your eligibility for scholarships or bursaries based on your academic performance and financial need.
Apply online by the deadline.
The application deadline for international students who want to start their studies in the fall of 2023 is June 1, 2023. You can apply online using the University of Guelph Application Form and pay a non-refundable application fee of CAD 110. You must provide your personal information, academic history, program choices, and preferred roommate/suitemate (if applicable).
Submit your transcripts and other supporting documents.
Once you submit your application, you will receive login credentials and guidelines for accessing your admission portal. Can upload your transcripts and other required documents, such as English proficiency test scores, supplemental forms, or portfolios (if applicable). You can verify your application’s status and stay informed about any updates from the university.
Receive your admission decision and accept your offer.
The university will review your application and make an admission decision based on your academic qualifications and program availability. Your admission decision will be communicated through email and the portal. If accepted, you will also receive information about your residence assignment and entrance scholarship (if applicable). You must get your offer by the deadline in your offer letter and pay a non-refundable deposit of CAD 750 to secure your spot.
Apply for a study permit and prepare for your arrival.
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) must issue all international students who wish to study in Canada a valid study permit. You can find more information on how to apply for a study permit on the IRCC website. The university’s DLI number is O19305391192. You will also need to arrange your travel, health insurance, orientation, and other pre-arrival matters with the help of the Global Pre-Arrival Support Advisor.

Scholarship for international students
If you’re an international student looking to study at the University of Guelph, you’ll be glad to know that there are several scholarships available to help you achieve your academic goals. Some of the scholarships you can apply for include:
- International Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships: These are awarded automatically based on your admission average and do not require you to apply. The value ranges from $5,500 to $8,500 in the first year and $4,000 each subsequent year if you maintain an 80% average.
- Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship: This is the most prestigious entrance scholarship and requires you to apply by January 25. The total value of the offer is $42,500 for four years. Along with this, the offer includes a research assistantship position and guidance from one of the esteemed professors of the university.
- Other Entrance Scholarships: These have an April 15 application deadline and can be found on the Undergraduate Award Search tool. Some examples are the Lincoln Alexander Chancellor’s Scholarship, the Board of Governors’ Scholarship, and the International Student Leadership Scholarship.
- In-course Scholarships and Bursaries: These are available for in-course undergraduate students who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, or leadership potential. You can find more information on the In-course Scholarships and In-course Bursaries pages.
FAQs
What programs does Guelph offer?
The University of Guelph provides diverse undergraduate and graduate programs across different fields, including agriculture, arts, engineering, science, and veterinary medicine. To view the complete list of programs, please visit the university’s official website.
What are the admission requirements for international students?
Admission requirements for international students differ based on their home country and educational background. If English is not your first language and you have had less than four years of full-time education in an English-speaking school system, you must show proof of English proficiency. The university’s website has detailed information on the specific requirements for your country and curriculum.
How do I apply to the University of Guelph as an international student?
You can complete the OUAC 105 application form online to apply to our institution. Please note that a non-refundable application fee of CAD 110 is required. You will need to provide your personal information, academic background, program preferences, and your preferred roommate or suitemate (if applicable). Additionally, you must submit all required transcripts and supporting documents, including English proficiency test scores, supplemental forms, or portfolio (if applicable). It’s important to note that the application deadline for international students intending to commence their studies in fall 2023 is June 1, 2023.

What scholarships are available for international students at the University of Guelph?
Several scholarships are available for international students who want to study at the University of Guelph. Some of them are:
- International Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships
- Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship
- Other Entrance Scholarships
- In-course Scholarships and Bursaries
What are the residence options for international students at the University of Guelph?
The University of Guelph has one of Canada’s largest and best residence systems, with various student living options. You can choose from traditional dormitory-style rooms with shared or suite-style rooms with private washrooms. Every room is fully furnished and comes with internet access. Additionally, you can select a living-learning community that aligns with your academic or personal interests. The residence fees include a meal plan allowing you to eat at any 16 on-campus dining venues. You can find more information on the Residence page.
How do I apply for residence at the University of Guelph?
To apply for residence at the University of Guelph, complete an online application form by June 1, 2023, and pay a CAD 750 deposit. You must also complete a Student Profile Form by June 1, 2023, which will help the university match you with a compatible roommate/suitemate. You can find more information on the Residence Application page.
How do I apply for a study permit to study in Canada?
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) must issue all international students who wish to study in Canada a valid study permit. You can find more information on how to apply for a study permit on the IRCC website. The university’s DLI number is O19305391192. You will also need to arrange your travel, health insurance, orientation, and other pre-arrival matters with the help of the Global Pre-Arrival Support Advisor.
What is the tuition fee for international students at the University of Guelph?
The University of Guelph charges international students differing tuition fees according to their chosen program and course load. The Tuition and Fees page has estimates of the tuition fees for various programs. Additionally, you will need to pay for other expenses, including student services, health insurance, residence fees, books, and supplies. The Cost of Living page contains further information about these expenses.
How can I contact the University of Guelph if I have more questions?
If you have more questions about the University of Guelph, you can contact the Admission Services by phone at 519-824-4120, ext. 58721, or by email at [email protected]. You can also visit the university’s website for more information.